Stockton Unified goodbye

STOCKTON - With music, flowers, a slide show and words of tribute, Stockton Unified bid farewell Friday afternoon to Trustee Sara Cazares in the auditorium of Franklin High School, her alma mater.

Roger Phillips

STOCKTON - With music, flowers, a slide show and words of tribute, Stockton Unified bid farewell Friday afternoon to Trustee Sara Cazares in the auditorium of Franklin High School, her alma mater.

The district also announced the establishment of a scholarship fund in memory of the 48-year-old Cazares, who died April 20 after suffering complications while undergoing a medical procedure in March.

About 150 people attended the hourlong event that featured performances by Franklin and Chavez High student musicians and spoken tributes from principals, administrators, colleagues and loved ones. Cazares' college-age sons, Ricardo and Luis, watched from the front row.

"In her heart, she wanted to give back to Stockton Unified," said Larry Hernandez, Cazares' husband of 23 years. "She understood the importance of active participation in the political process to expand social justice and democracy. Nothing was more important to her than service to the children of Stockton Unified. Although our hearts are broken, we also know the community of Stockton mourns along with us."

Astronaut Jose Hernandez, who knew Cazares since their high school days together, also spoke. He reiterated a previous request that the district name a school after his late friend.

"We all have to continue working for what her vision was," Hernandez said. "Let's keep working. Let's not be sad but celebrate her life and her accomplishments."

Assistant Superintendent Julie Penn, speaking for the district, with Superintendent Steve Lowder at an out-of-town conference, announced establishment of the Sara Cazares Memorial Scholarship. Those wishing to contribute can send a check to Stockton Unified's Student Support Services Department, 1144 East Channel St., Room 205, Stockton, CA 95205. Envelopes should be marked to the attention of "Scholarships."

"She was not a person who looked for the limelight," said David Varela, Cazares' closest friend on the board. "The limelight found her, because she fought for what was right."